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Summer SPF tips from Dr. Howard Sobel of DDF

May 20, 2013

It’s always easier to prevent than treat when it comes to your skin. Wondering how much SPF is enough for maximum protection from the sun’s harmful rays? DDF founder and leading dermatologist, Dr. Howard Sobel, answered some really great questions about SPF below — take a look:

DDF Protective Eye Cream SPF 15

Is SPF found within makeup sufficient protection for an average day?
No, SPF within makeup is not sufficient protection for an average day. It would require 7 times the normal amount of foundation to provide enough coverage, so it’s important to wear a separate moisturizer with that offers SPF protection.

What level of SPF should I use?
Sunscreens with SPF 15 or greater should always be applied to the skin daily. Be sure to pick a sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection against harmful both UVB rays that contribute to damaging outer skin layers, or receiving a sunburn, and UVA rays that damage deeper layers of the skin contributing to fine lines and wrinkles. If you’re hitting the beach, I recommend increasing your protection to an SPF of at least 30 and be sure to reapply every two hours.

How effective is sunscreen with SPF 50+?
The SPF rating measures the time it would take you to sunburn if you were not wearing sunscreen as opposed to the time it would take with sunscreen on. SPF 15 blocks about 93% of the sun’s rays, while SPF 30 blocks 97% and SPF 45 blocks 98%, so doubling the number and applying SPF 50 or higher doesn’t double your skin’s protection and none offer 100% protection.

What’s the best way to protect the eye area?
In addition to wearing sunglasses, opt for a light-weight eye cream with SPF protection such as DDF’s Protective Eye Cream SPF 15. Sun damage is the number one cause of fine lines and wrinkles, and it’s important not to forget about the delicate eye area where crow’s feet begin to appear over time if the skin is not protected against harmful rays.

Are there any foods or supplements that can help increase your body’s own SPF?
Anti-oxidants are a great way to boost your body’s natural sun protection. Tomatoes, red bell peppers and watermelon all contain the powerful antioxidant, lycopene, which helps block the action of free radicals found in the sun’s rays.

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